Three dead after supply boat sinks following collision off Pasir Panjang Terminal

Three people died after a supply boat collided with a landing craft and sank off the Pasir Panjang Terminal on June 12, according to the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA). The victims, believed to be crew members aged between 38 and 53, were retrieved from the waters off Pasir Panjang Wharf and declared dead by a Singapore Civil Defence Force paramedic.

Why did the supply boat sink?

The vessel sank at approximately 9:30 a.m. following a collision with a landing craft, the MPA stated in a report. The landing craft remained stable after the impact, and the MPA reported no injuries among its crew.

The MPA, Police Coast Guard, and SCDF Marine Division responded to the scene to launch search and rescue operations. Navigational broadcasts were issued to warn other vessels to avoid the incident area.

Did You Know? The three deceased crew members were aged between 38 and 53 years old.

What is the current status of the rescue operation?

Search and rescue efforts remain active. The MPA confirmed that diving operations are continuing to ensure all crew members from the supply boat are accounted for.

Despite the collision, port operations have not been affected. The landing craft involved in the accident is reported as stable.

Expert Insight: Samantha Carter notes that the immediate issuance of navigational broadcasts is a critical step in preventing secondary collisions in high-traffic zones like Pasir Panjang. The outcome of this event contrasts sharply with the June 5 incident where all nine crew members of a sinking Tanzania-registered vessel were safely rescued.

How does this event compare to other recent maritime accidents?

This incident follows a series of maritime events in the region. On June 5, a Tanzania-registered container vessel sank off Batam after taking on water, though the MPA stated all nine crew members were rescued by Indonesian authorities.

Three dead after supply boat sinks off Pasir Panjang Terminal following collision

In March, a pleasure craft sank off Singapore’s Southern Islands, leaving one man missing. A body believed to be the missing man was found in Indonesian waters a week later, and police arrested a 49-year-old man for rash navigation of a vessel.

What may happen next?

Authorities may continue diving operations until every crew member is located. An investigation into the cause of the collision could lead to findings similar to the March incident, where a charge of rash navigation was filed.

Frequently Asked Questions

When did the supply boat sink?
The boat sank at about 9:30 a.m. on June 12.

Were any port operations disrupted?
No, the MPA stated that port operations have not been affected.

Who responded to the emergency?
The MPA, Police Coast Guard, and SCDF Marine Division were activated for search and rescue operations.

What measures could further improve maritime safety in busy port terminals?